KUALA LUMPUR: The arrest of 18,349 individuals suspected of being involved in secret society activities proves that the police have taken action to stem their criminal activities.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said these suspects were among 40,313 individuals who were members of 49 groups or organisations outlawed under the Societies Act 1966.
"Claims that the police have not arrested members of secret society gangs are baseless and carry a personal agenda," he said in his written reply to Lim Lip Eng (DAP-Segambut) in the Dewan Rakyat, here, today.
Ahmad Zahid said the figures were obtained from intelligence information and also based on statements recorded from suspected secret society gang leaders and members arrested under the "Operasi Khas Cantas" from Aug 17 to Oct 13.
He said police were in the process of determining whether they had been members of secret society gangs or any illegal organisation.
"If there are strong evidence and agreed by the public prosecutor, those arrested will be brought to court," he added. BERNAMA